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Is a job in logistics in Africa right for you?

Posted on 28 août, 2023 by Jobnet Africa

South Africa is at the top of the list when it comes to having the most developed transport and logistics sector in Sub-Saharan Africa. While this proves the industry to have a good reputation, many may wish to head into logistics as a career. However, those who are looking into the logistics industry may wonder if they’re right for the job. Whether you’re looking to switch careers or you’re entering the workforce for the first time, here’s what you need to know when considering a career in logistics — as well as what characteristics are beneficial to have.

What does a career in logistics entail?

When asking yourself if a career in logistics is right for you, it’s important to first understand exactly what the field entails. In broad terms, logistics involves the proper management of goods in regard to different aspects — such as procurement, transport, and warehousing. Logisticians also work to find the most resourceful and efficient way to handle or seek materials for a company. With that in mind, the common duties of a logistician may involve a variety of things, such as managing inventory (such as planning or tracking the movement of products), problem-solving, and more, depending on the career path that is chosen.

Choosing a career path

There are a number of career paths to choose from when it comes to logistics, which brings a number of opportunities to the table to consider. For example, you could become a logistics engineer or analyst, an inventory control specialist, or a transportation manager, to name a few. While the many options can seem overwhelming, there are plenty of options for you to choose what you feel fits you the best. If you’re interested in a career in supply chain and logistics, for instance, a potential career path worth exploring could include that of a supply chain manager.

A supply chain manager has a myriad of duties, though their primary responsibilities involve overseeing a company’s supply chain and ensuring that it runs efficiently. This, in turn, would include additional duties like creating supply chain strategies, finding solutions to supply challenges and even tasks like training a team and evaluating employees. However, it’s important to keep in mind that no matter which path in logistics you choose to take, there are a few characteristics you’ll need to possess when working in the field in order to do so successfully.

The necessary characteristics of a logistician

When working as a logistician, there are a few characters you’ll need to have in order to be successful. For instance, logistics is known for being a stressful and high-pressure job, so knowing how to handle yourself in such situations, like working well under pressure, is a must. For those looking into management positions, possessing the skills of a good leader, such as strong and effective communication and dependability, is a vital necessity to the role (as well as the ability to be a team player). Not to mention planning and organisational skills, which are another must in any logistics position.

Whether you’re changing your career or entering the workforce for the first time, a career in logistics can be a rewarding path to consider. However, it’s important to understand what the job entails, as well as the necessary characteristics you’ll need to possess in order to determine whether or not the job is right for you.

Check JobnetAfrica for jobs in the logistics sector in Africa and if you have any questions, contact us at contact@jobnetafrica.com.

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